Iraqite-(La) is an extremely rare silicate mineral belonging to the ekanite group, typically found in alkaline pegmatites. Collectors look for its characteristic tetragonal prismatic crystal habit and yellowish-brown coloration, though specimens are prized primarily for their rarity in the mineral market.

Hardness

5-6

Mohs

Luster

Vitreous

Streak

White

Transparency

Translucent

mineralrareEkanite Group family

Iraqite-(La)

Hardness: 5-6
Luster: Vitreous
Streak: White
Transparency: Translucent

Is this iraqite-(la)?

5-step field check

Run through these checks against the specimen in your hand. The more boxes tick, the more confident the ID.

1
Test the hardness
Try to scratch iraqite-(la) with a known reference. Iraqite-(La) sits at Mohs 5-6 — softer than the next harder reference, harder than the previous one.
2
Check the streak
Drag the specimen across an unglazed porcelain plate. Iraqite-(La) leaves a white streak.
3
Read the luster
Hold the specimen under a strong light. Iraqite-(La) typically shows a vitreous luster.
4
Match the color range
Compare against the expected color range: yellow, brown, yellowish-brown.
5
Look at form & habit
Crystal system: tetragonal. Typical habit: prismatic crystals.

Often confused with

Iraqite-(La) vs. its common look-alikes — and how to tell them apart in the field.

Often found alongside iraqite-(la)

Minerals reported to co-occur with iraqite-(la). Spotting these in float or country rock is a strong cue you are in the right ground.

All properties

Chemical formula: (La,Ce)₂Ca₄(Si₄B₄O₂₀)
Mohs hardness: 5-6
Density: 3.37 g/cm³
Colors: Yellow Brown Yellowish-brown
Streak: White
Luster: Vitreous
Transparency: Translucent
Crystal system: Tetragonal
Crystal habit: Prismatic Crystals
Cleavage: None
Rarity: Rare
Uses: Collector
Host rock: Alkaline Pegmatites
Typical price: $100-500 for small thumbnail specimens

Where rockhounds find iraqite-(la)

Classic worldwide localities

Kurdistan Province, Iraq
Mianeh, Iran

Field-hunting tip

Look in alkaline pegmatites country — that is the host setting where iraqite-(la) typically forms. If you start seeing quartz, microcline, fluorite in float, you are in the right ground. Field specimens usually show a prismatic crystals habit, so train your eye for that shape before scanning the outcrop.

Common questions

How do you identify iraqite-(la)?+

Mohs hardness is 5-6. It typically shows a vitreous luster. The streak is white. Common colors include yellow, brown, yellowish-brown.

Where is iraqite-(la) found?+

Notable localities include Kurdistan Province, Iraq; Mianeh, Iran.

How much is iraqite-(la) worth?+

Typical asking prices fall in the range of $100-500 for small thumbnail specimens. Quality, size, and provenance can move individual specimens well outside that range.

Is iraqite-(la) safe to handle?+

This mineral is radioactive. Iraqite-(La) contains thorium as a common trace element and is radioactive. Handle with caution, store away from other sensitive specimens, and wash hands after handling. Handle with care, avoid grinding or breathing dust, and store separately.

What rocks look like iraqite-(la)?+

Iraqite-(La) is most often confused with Ekanite, Steacyite. A quick hardness test and a streak check separate the look-alikes faster than color alone.

What minerals are found with iraqite-(la)?+

Iraqite-(La) commonly co-occurs with Quartz, Microcline, Fluorite, Zircon. Spotting any of these in float or country rock is a useful trip signal.

What kind of rock does iraqite-(la) form in?+

Iraqite-(La) typically forms in alkaline pegmatites. Working float back to the host body is the standard way to chase a fresh occurrence.

What is iraqite-(la) used for?+

Iraqite-(La) is used in collector.

Find iraqite-(la) on the map

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